What Telemarketers Must Know

If your budget doesn't restrict your telemarketing efforts, the law might. Under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, whether you sell to businesses or homes, you must develop and maintain a "do-not-call" list. The act had previously limited the use of autodialing devices; however, in May 1993 a federal judge ruled that limitation constituted a hardship for small businesses. The ban on unsolicited advertising faxes still stands but was recently challenged.

The Direct Marketing Association publishes the guidelines "Marketing by Telephone," available by writing to the DMA's Ethics and Consumer Affairs Department, 1101 17th St. NW, Suite 705, Washington, DC 20036-4704. The DMA will issue updates on changes to the law. -- Researched by Phaedra Hise